Minnesota Measles Cases Reach 80, Highest Total Since 1990

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - A growing measles outbreak in western Minnesota has pushed the total number of confirmed cases in the state this year to 80, the highest annual total since 1990.

Most Cases Involve Unvaccinated Children

The Minnesota Department of Health reports that the number of confirmed measles cases in Todd County has risen to 57. All but two of the measles cases reported in Minnesota this year have involved people who had not received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and 71% of the cases have involved children.

“The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is well-tested, highly effective and provides long-lasting protection,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “We strongly advise anyone who is recommended to receive the MMR vaccine and has not been vaccinated to contact their health care provider and get vaccinated now.”

No New Cases Reported in Fillmore County

The measles outbreak reported in Fillmore County last month appears to have stabilized. The state health department continues to report that the total number of confirmed cases in Fillmore County stands at six.

State Health Officials Anticipating More Cases

A Department of Health news release states that several clusters of measles cases involving people who traveled within the United States have been identified. Health officials also note that “there is a historic amount of measles circulating in the U.S. currently” and expect Minnesota to experience more cases in the coming weeks and months.